Are you one of the millions of people afraid of needles?
It is completely normal to have apprehension before an injectable treatment. Even though cosmetic-injections are done a million times a day (that number might be a slight exaggeration, but probably not by much) there are always patients who are nervous about treatment. Sometimes, even patients who previously have had injectable treatments still find themselves anxiety-ridden before their 2nd, 3rd or 20th session! But, everyone is different, and everyone is entitled to their feelings.
When it comes to cosmetic injections, the fears are multifold.
Instead of a normal needle or shot, this one is going into your face.
It might hurt.
It might not do what you intended.
It might just leave a tell-tale bruise at the injection site…
Although the majority of these issues can be addressed (and largely avoided) by making sure you are placing yourself in competent, capable hands, there is a little something extra you can do for prevention of the latter.
Arnica, which is derived from the Arnica Montana daisy flower, is a homeopathic remedy that has been used for centuries to prevent and speed the healing of bruising / swelling. Arnica (also known as Leopard’s Bane) is a perennial mountain plant, most commonly found in northwestern United States and central Europe. Centuries ago, mountain climbers discovered that by chewing the plant while it was fresh and flowering, alleviated sore, aching muscles and bruises from falling.
Thanks to modern technology, the healing properties of Arnica can now be enjoyed without eating flowers. Available in both a cream formula (cream is better for drier skin) and dietary-supplement, Arnica can be used as needed for swelling relief. In addition to encouraging bruise clearance, soothing swollen muscles and relieving minor muscle pain, Arnica does not contain any dyes or perfumes, so there is no chance for it to cause any irritation. (Also in the plus category for homeopathic medicines such as Arnica ~ there are no reported drug interactions or side effects when used as directed, so using it as safe as safe can be.)
With the use of Arnica, most patients report that their swelling is reduced, bruises heal more quickly, AND their discomfort is alleviated.
Arnica can be used up to 3-4 times a day.Some people even choose to pre-treat specific areas in the hopes that bruising and swelling will be prevented by exposing the skin to the anti-inflammatory agent before the trauma occurs.
Arnica can be used before and after procedures such as:
- Botox Injections
- Dermal-Filler injections
- Lip Injections
- Kybella Injections
- Sculptra Injections
- Any treatment that might involve bruising or swelling
Although Arnica comes from something as innocent as a Daisy, utilizing Arnica can ease some of the anxiety many people face at the thought of bruising or swelling after Botox / Juvederm injections.
And, cosmetic conundrums aside — Arnica is something that many people use and enjoy everyday, as it can be used anytime that a bruise or injury occurs. (Athletes, toddlers, and even those that are naturally accident-prone can all enjoy the quick-healing, natural effects of Arnica.)
If there are any lingering fears about the needle-in-face aspect… well. There are other medicines for that. (Or at the very least, squeezy balls.)
